Spaghetti with Broccoli and Smoked Almonds Recipe
Description:
Spaghetti with Broccoli and Smoked Almonds is a flavorful and nutritious Italian-inspired dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a busy day. Combining the goodness of tender broccoli, hearty durum wheat spaghetti, and the delightful crunch of toasted smoked almonds, this simple yet satisfying meal is sure to please your taste buds. Infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic, green chillies, and a splash of lemon juice, this vegetarian dish is a delicious blend of textures and flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, it’s an ideal dish for a speedy weeknight dinner.
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Durum Wheat Spaghetti Pasta | 250 grams (cooked as per package instructions and drained) |
| Broccoli florets | 12 (blanched and drained) |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 3 cloves (minced) |
| Whole Almonds (Badam) | 8 (sliced, roasted and smoked) |
| Green Chillies | 2 (chopped) or red chillies |
| Lemon Juice | 3/4 teaspoon (or to taste) |
| Salt | As required |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1 tablespoon (grated for garnish, optional) |
Allergen Information
This recipe contains tree nuts (almonds) and dairy (if using parmesan cheese).
If you have a nut allergy, substitute the almonds with seeds (such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds).
To make the dish dairy-free, omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian, making it suitable for those following a plant-based diet.
- Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the durum wheat spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.
- Low-Carb/Low-Calorie: You can modify the pasta to a lower-carb option like spiralized zucchini or a cauliflower-based spaghetti for a healthier alternative.
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
-
Heat Oil and Sauté Flavors:
Start by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped chillies. Sauté for a few seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant, taking care not to burn it. -
Combine Vegetables and Pasta:
Toss in the blanched broccoli florets and cooked spaghetti into the pan. Stir everything together, ensuring the broccoli and pasta are well-coated with the garlic and olive oil mixture. -
Season:
Season the dish with salt to taste, and squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the top for a zesty kick. Toss everything again to evenly distribute the seasoning. -
Garnish and Serve:
Plate the spaghetti with broccoli mixture and top with roasted and smoked almond slices for added crunch and flavor. If desired, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top for a rich finish. -
Serving Suggestion:
Serve the Spaghetti with Broccoli and Smoked Almonds alongside a classic Pizza Margherita for a quick, wholesome dinner that will satisfy your cravings without taking too much time to prepare.
Advice
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze to elevate the dish. You can also play with different types of nuts like cashews or walnuts if you prefer a change from smoked almonds. Additionally, using fresh, seasonal broccoli will enhance the dish’s taste and nutrition.
Conclusion
This Spaghetti with Broccoli and Smoked Almonds recipe is a delightful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a truly satisfying meal. With its light yet filling nature, it’s perfect for any time of day, especially when you need a fast, nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a solo meal or pair it with a delicious side, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation. Try it today and discover just how easy it is to enjoy the vibrant tastes of Italian cooking at home!
